Mayor-elect Jorge Elorza talks with (from left) Family Service of Rhode Island CEO Margaret Holland McDuff and Dr. Susan Erstling. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News
WPRO News and The Associated Press
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – The Providence Police Department and the nonprofit Family Service of Rhode Island are celebrating a decade-long partnership.
The partnership was created to help children and families exposed to violence. Staff from the nonprofit agency attends weekly police command staff meetings to report on calls and receive referrals. A bilingual staff member accompanies police five nights a week to intervene in community problems, prevent violence and work with victims.
The anniversary was celebrated Tuesday at the public safety complex. Officials there said the partners work with about 500 crime victims annually, most of whom are children.
Police Chief Hugh Clements Jr. says they’re working together to improve the quality of life in Providence. He says the police department is a better agency because of the partnership.
